Search

ARCHIVES
CONTACT US
WORLD NEWS

BULLS, BRONCS & BARRELS, OH MY!

Tucson held its 75th Annual La Fiesta de los Vaqueros, or literally "Celebration of the Cowboys," this past week at the Tucson Rodeo Grounds. With cash and prizes totaling over $250,000 for the world's toughest cowboys, the rodeo drew many crowds and contestants alike.

While the fans are gathering and filling the stands the cowboys, handlers, clowns and announcers were all getting ready to put on the best show in Tucson. Backstage the cowboys were stretching, taping up and mentally preparing for what some would view as crazy. These talented athletes were not fearless, although they did a good job of making us believe so. Projecting cool attitudes and calm nerves, these cowboys were getting themselves ready to sit on a raging wild horse or bull that had been genetically chosen and bred for speed, agility and all-around cowboy annihilation.

Despite this the cowboys and clowns all joked and made light of the situation before and after each ride. The general atmosphere of adrenaline, anxiety and intensity were unmistakable in these athletes and it was apparent in their performance.

Aaron Farnsworth Arizona Daily Wildcat A rodeo contestant looks out at the crowd while stretching to warm up for his event.	Aaron Farnsworth Arizona Daily Wildcat Just out of the gate, this bronc was hesitant to enter the arena with a rider on its back.
Aaron Farnsworth Arizona Daily Wildcat Stretching is a necessary pre-ride ritual for these cowboys before every rodeo.	Aaron Farnsworth Arizona Daily Wildcat A Saddle Bronc Riding competitor holds on to complete the eight-second ride.
Aaron Farnsworth Arizona Daily Wildcat A Junior Division rider prepares for his event while waiting for his horse.	Aaron Farnsworth Arizona Daily Wildcat A bronc attempts to drag not only the rider, but also a handler, into the arena.